Resume WorkshopResume Workshop

Educational Opportunity CenterEducational Opportunity Center

Basics

The resume is a tool to get you an interview!

The purpose of the resume is to briefly relate who you are, what you know, what you have done, and what you would like to do.

Getting Started

Create a rough draft listing EVERYTHING in your past that could be relevant.

Plan and weigh EVERY word in your resume, so that you do not repeat any information.

Guidelines

Be consistent with the format Use short phrases, NOT sentences Include skills such as foreign languages and

computer applications Try not to exceed one page. If you have a

second page, make sure the entire page is filled!

Neatness and accuracy are critical.

Guidelines con’t

Do not use personal pronouns Do not include high school accomplishments

Content

• Identification – Name, address, phone number and email address

Content con’t

• Career Objective – The objective statement should be as specific as possible.

• Ex. To obtain a College Advisor position at Malcolm X College

• Avoid trite word phrases such as “challenging, established firm, and opportunity for advancement.

Content con’t

• Education – Begin by listing your most recent or highest degree. Include all post-secondary education.

• For each entry include – title of degree date of completion, major and/or minor, emphasis or specialization, name and location of the school, GPA optional

Content con’t

• Honors – List any academic honors such as Dean’s List, Honor organizations, etc.

Content con’t

• Experience – describe duties most related to the job you are seeking. Include volunteer work, internships, and self-employment.

• Detail job title, organization, major responsibilities and dates

• Be specific and use action verbs, do not list every duty, but rather those that show diversity and willingness to take on responsibility.

Content con’t

• Include all information regarding certifications, licenses, memberships, professional development workshops/seminars.

References

• “available upon request” is acceptable.

• Make sure to have 3 – 5 references ready with names, addresses, email addresses and phone numbers at your interview.

• Communicate to references, so they know to expect a call/email and to respond accordingly.

Questions• What questions can I help answer?

References

http://www.siu.edu/~ucs/students/